Aalst’s city center is an inviting area for travelers who enjoy exploring on foot, offering a compact layout with a variety of attractions, shops, and dining options within easy reach. The proximity of everyday amenities makes walking a feasible choice for many errands, providing a seamless and car-free experience. However, accommodations located further from the central hub may necessitate the occasional use of transit or a bike, slightly reducing its walkability for those not staying in the immediate center.

Aalst’s public transportation is well-developed, with both buses and trains offering connections to surrounding regions and important hubs like Brussels and Ghent. For a traveler, the frequent trains make commuting or traveling for leisure convenient with minimal hassle. The city's train station is conveniently located near the city center, but travelers relying solely on local buses may need to plan more as buses do not match the frequency of trains and the service is less extensive compared to larger metro systems.

Cycling is an excellent option for travelers in Aalst, largely thanks to its flat terrain and the culture of cycling, which is prevalent in the region. The city has taken steps to improve bikeability with recent infrastructure enhancements such as bike tunnels and dedicated paths. Additionally, the F2 cycle highway offers an impressive route for longer rides to Ghent and Brussels. However, some areas may still pose challenges, requiring cyclists to be cautious of traffic or lookout for gaps in the network.